HARWICH’S successful memory café has been the focus of a new study by the University of Suffolk.

The Harwich Library Memory Café was launched during Dementia Action Week in May 2022, inspiring similar groups to be created across Essex.

During the study, which is part of a wider PhD at the University of Suffolk due to be completed in September, 2024, café participants became co-researchers.

Between June and December 2023, seven co-researchers recruited from the café explored how the café had been designed between volunteers, carers, and participants themselves.

One of the co-researchers involved, who is a family carer, said: “Interesting, it's given me a lot to think about.

“I have learned that people who work at the council are really involved in supporting people.” 

While Essex County Councillor Mark Spense said: “Our libraries are more than just places where you can borrow books, they are also a social space where residents of all ages can learn new skills and access new opportunities.

“The Memory Café at Harwich Library is one example of how our libraries are able to provide extra support to those who need it and even connect people across generations. I’m delighted to see its success continuing to be recognised.”

For more information about the researched titled "How co-production impacts integrated care design and transformation: Library Memory Café' visit here.

While for more information about the Memory café visit here.